CN1700201A

CN1700201A - Image processing device, image processing system and image processing method

Info

Publication number: CN1700201A
Application number: CNA2005100726902A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 本间友之
Original assignee: Sharp Corp
Current assignee: Sharp Corp
Priority date: 2004-05-18
Filing date: 2005-05-18
Publication date: 2005-11-23
Anticipated expiration: 2025-05-18
Also published as: CN100416548C; US7369704B2; JP2005332062A; US20050259872A1

Abstract

In a circumstance where an image processing apparatus is connected to and capable of communicating with a plurality of processing servers each performing a specific data processing service, what kind of processing is performed on document image data read out from a document by image reading means is determined in accordance with the document image data. Then an address of a processing server capable of performing the processing thus determined is searched. Then at least a part of the document image data or character-string image extracted therefrom is supplied to the address thus searched, and the data processing service is requested. From this address, a result of the data processing service is obtained, and the obtained result of the data processing service is outputted. With this arrangement, when an image is read out from a document and a result of image processing corresponding to a character-string image in the document image, it is possible to efficiently utilize the processing resources such as dictionary information and a program, which are required for performing data processing on the character-string image.

Description

Image processing apparatus, image processing system, image processing method

Technical field

The present invention relates to implement image processing apparatus, image processing system, image processing method, the image processing program of Flame Image Process and write down the recording medium that the carried out computing machine of this image processing program reads according to character string picture.

Background technology

So far, at duplicating machine, scanister, facsimile recorder or their image processing apparatus such as compounding machine, be in the image processing system of textural element perhaps with these image processing apparatus, by from the original copy reading images, on recording chart etc., form image and send image etc., thereby the processing result image of various processing has been implemented in output to this original image to other image processing apparatus or signal conditioning package.

On the other hand, open in the 2000-259633 communique (on September 22nd, 2000 is open) spy as Japan's publication communique, show translating server and possess multiple special dictionary, translating server and the dictionary of being possessed thereof are shared by many translation customer devices, with as having used the translation customer device that is made of general information treating apparatus such as personal computers and the universal network translation system of translating server.

; in original copy as the reading object of image processing apparatus; the situation that has comprised character string picture is in the majority; for such character string picture; for example; if open the exportable like that result who carries out processing such as Translation Processing shown in the 2000-259633 communique the spy, then can obtain the high image processing apparatus of convenience.

Open under the situation that the technology shown in the 2000-259633 communique is applied to image processing system at Jiang Te, extract the character string information that from the original image that original copy reads, is comprised out, the character string information of being extracted out is carried out Translation Processing by above-mentioned translating server.In addition, be not limited to translation, for example, the explainative information of the buzz word that also can consider in the output string information to be comprised etc.

But, when Jiang Te opens the technology shown in the 2000-259633 communique and is applied to image processing system, carrying out in the server that network is connected the handling part of the character string information of being extracted out being handled (Translation Processing etc.) being set with image processing apparatus.Therefore, for the every station server (server in the LAN etc.) that is set in advance in as the access address in the image processing apparatus, must be provided with and store the processing resources such as handling procedure of using the explanation dictionary of the translation dictionary corresponding, buzz word or using them with various language and field.Therefore, for corresponding, need jumbo storage unit etc., thereby have the problem of handling the efficiency of resource difference for the every station server that is set in advance in as the access address in the image processing apparatus with the original copy in more language or field.Particularly, processing resource such as dictionary information that will be corresponding with low language of usage frequency or field or program is stored in every station server set in the image processing apparatus efficient extreme difference in advance.

Summary of the invention

The present invention carries out in view of the above problems, its purpose is: provide a kind of and carrying out according to character string picture under the situation of Flame Image Process, can effectively utilize image processing apparatus, image processing system, image processing method, the image processing program of processing resources such as required dictionary information of the processing of this character string picture or program and write down the recording medium that the carried out computing machine of this image processing program reads.

In order to solve above-mentioned problem, to be a kind of basis implemented The results of data processing to the character string picture or the information of extracting out to image processing apparatus of the present invention from this character string picture, the image that comprises above-mentioned character string picture is carried out the image processing apparatus of Flame Image Process, comprise: Department of Communication Force, the data that receive are carried out various data processing service, and return more than the result who has implemented the data processing service data and handle between the service unit and communicate; Address of service search part, retrieval can be carried out the address of the data processing service unit of the data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture; String data is handled services request portion, through above-mentioned Department of Communication Force, send above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out and request are carried out the data processing service to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture information from character string picture to the address that above-mentioned address of service search part retrieves; The result obtaining section through above-mentioned Department of Communication Force, obtains the result that above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out are carried out the data processing service from above-mentioned data processing service unit from character string picture.

The image processing apparatus of said structure carries out the data processing service (for example translate and explanation etc.) of character string picture by the address of entrusting the address of service search part to retrieve, and handles service thereby can accept data necessary.Therefore, need not every image processing apparatus is equipped with the character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture are carried out the required processing resource of data processing (for example dictionary information or program etc.).In addition, for example, can effectively utilize can be connected communicate on the Internet etc., be present in all over the world the data processing service unit was equipped with, character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture carried out required dictionary information of data processing or program etc. handle resource.

In order to solve above-mentioned problem, image processing system of the present invention is a kind of like this system, comprising: a plurality of data processing service units, carry out various data processing service to the data that receive, and return the result who has implemented the data processing service; Image processing apparatus according to by above-mentioned data processing service unit the character string picture or the information of extracting out have been implemented The results of data processing from this character string picture, carries out Flame Image Process to the image that comprises above-mentioned character string picture; And the signal conditioning package that can between above-mentioned image processing apparatus, communicate, above-mentioned image processing apparatus comprise above-mentioned data processing service unit and and above-mentioned signal conditioning package between the Department of Communication Force that communicates, above-mentioned signal conditioning package comprises that retrieval can carry out the address of service search part of address of the data processing service unit of the data processing content that above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from character string picture, also comprise string data processing services request portion, be arranged in above-mentioned image processing apparatus or the above-mentioned signal conditioning package information that sends above-mentioned character string picture or from character string picture, extract out to the address that above-mentioned address of service search part retrieves, and the information of data processing service is carried out in request to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture; The result obtaining section is arranged in the above-mentioned image processing apparatus, obtains the result that above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out are carried out the data processing service from above-mentioned data processing service unit from character string picture.

According to said structure, owing to need not every image processing apparatus is provided with the address of service search part, so can constitute more efficient system.

Image processing method of the present invention is a kind of image processing method that uses the image disposal system, this image disposal system comprises: a plurality of data processing service units, the data that receive are carried out various data processing service, return the result who has implemented the data processing service; Image processing apparatus, according to can with above-mentioned data processing service unit communicate be connected, by above-mentioned data processing service unit the character string picture or the information of extracting out have been implemented The results of data processing from this character string picture, the image that comprises above-mentioned character string picture is carried out Flame Image Process, this image processing method comprises: address of service retrieval operation, retrieval can be carried out the address of the data processing service unit of the data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture; String data is handled the services request operation, from above-mentioned image processing apparatus, send above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out and request are carried out the data processing service to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture information from character string picture to the address that above-mentioned address of service search part retrieves; And result obtains operation, and above-mentioned image processing apparatus is obtained the result that above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out are carried out the data processing service from character string picture from above-mentioned data processing service unit.

According to above-mentioned image processing method, above-mentioned image processing apparatus carries out the data processing service (for example translation or explanation etc.) of character string picture by the address of entrusting the address of service search part to retrieve, and handles service thereby can accept data necessary.Therefore, need not every image processing apparatus is provided with the character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture are carried out the required processing resource of data processing (for example dictionary information or program etc.).

In addition, image processing program of the present invention is a kind of program that makes computing machine carry out the processing of each operation in the above-mentioned image processing method.Therefore, carry out this program, can make this computer realization image processing method of the present invention by making computing machine.

In addition, by above-mentioned image processing program being recorded in advance in the recording medium that can read by computing machine, make the preservation of image processing program and circulation carry out easily.In addition, read in this recording medium, can make this computer realization image processing method of the present invention by making computing machine.

In addition, data-signal string of the present invention is with the train of signal of said procedure as the data-signal string.For example, be buried in the above-mentioned data-signal string that is sent out away in the carrier wave and carry out, can make this computer realization image processing method of the present invention at computing machine by reception.

Other purpose, feature and advantage of the present invention are fully understood by record shown below.In addition, advantage of the present invention can be with reference to becoming clearer in the explanation below the accompanying drawing.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the system construction drawing of schematic configuration of the image processing system X of expression one embodiment of the present of invention.

Fig. 2 is the block scheme of the schematic configuration of the presentation video disposal system X and the processing server that can communicate with image processing system X.

Fig. 3 is the figure of the schematic configuration example of character font data table among the presentation video disposal system X.

Fig. 4 is the figure of the content of language particular table among the presentation video disposal system X (judged result of language analysis unit).

Fig. 5 is the figure of an example of services selection picture among the presentation video disposal system X.

Fig. 6 is the figure of an example of the expression data structure that is stored in the processing key in the retrieval server of image processing system X.

Fig. 7 is the process flow diagram of the handling procedure of presentation video disposal system X.

Embodiment

Referring now to description of drawings one embodiment of the present of invention.Have, present embodiment is the example that the present invention is specialized, and does not limit technical scope of the present invention again.

Fig. 1 is the system construction drawing of schematic configuration of the image processing system X of expression present embodiment.

As shown in Figure 1, image processing system X has a plurality of image processing apparatus 1 and retrieval server 2, and they are via being connected communicatedly with the Internet 4 based on the equipment of IEEE802.03 standard and based on the LAN3 of ICP/IP protocol etc.

Have again, image processing system X is constituted as: carry out a plurality of data processing service units of various specific data processing services, promptly processing server 5 (processing server A, B ...) can communicate via the Internet 4 (perhaps public communication line etc.) with each of image processing apparatus 1 and retrieval server 2.

Fig. 2 is the block scheme of the schematic configuration of the presentation video disposal system X and the processing server 5 that can communicate with image processing system X.

Image processing apparatus 1 possesses Department of Communication Force 11, image reading unit 12, language analysis unit 13, word analysis unit 14, handles determination section 15, processes and displays portion 16, processing controls portion 17, efferent 18 and data store 19.

Department of Communication Force 11 communicates control through 4 pairs of retrieval servers 2 of LAN3 (not shown in Fig. 2) and the Internet and processing server 5.In addition, Department of Communication Force 11 is also carried out original image that image reading unit 12 is read or the result who this original image has been carried out Flame Image Process send (output) as view data or e-mail data processing to other image processing apparatus 1 and not shown signal conditioning packages such as personal computer.That is to say that Department of Communication Force 11 has the function as an example of processing result image output unit (processing result image efferent).

Image reading unit 12 is examples of image fetching unit (image reading unit), is used for from the original copy reading images.As image reading unit 12, for example can adopt the light irradiation unit that possesses the original copy irradiates light, import catoptrical optical system, will carry out light-to-current inversion by the light that this optical system imports and export the structure that the photoelectric conversion units such as CCD etc. of the view data of original copy constitute from original copy.

Processes and displays portion 16 shows the information such as message to the user, and, for example constitute by liquid crystal panel etc.

Each textural element of processing controls portion 17 control image processing apparatus 1.Processing controls portion 17 peripheral units by CPU such as CPU and ROM, RAM constitute, by carrying out the control program that is stored in advance among the above-mentioned ROM by above-mentioned CPU, each textural element of control image processing apparatus 1.

Efferent 18 is examples of processing result image output unit (processing result image efferent), and the original image that will be read by image reading unit 11 perhaps outputs on recording chart etc. as image the result that this original image has been implemented image processing.As efferent 18, for example, can use by the photoconductor drum of load image, make it charged Charging system, with electrostatic latent image be written to laser scan unit on the photoconductor drum, with toner make this latent electrostatic image developing developing apparatus, this toner is looked like to copy to the structure that reproducing unit on recording chart etc. etc. constitutes.

Data store 19 is storage unit such as hard disk unit, view data and other various data (font data table d1, language set information d2, language particular table d3, buzz word information d4 etc.) that storage is read by image reading unit 12.

Language analysis unit 13, word analysis unit 14, handle determination section 15 by comprise CPU and stored the ROM of established procedure, the arithmetic elements such as RAM that constitute the main storage area constitute, by carrying out the program that is stored in advance among the above-mentioned ROM, carry out various processing by above-mentioned CPU.

Language analysis unit 13 is examples that character string picture is extracted unit (character string picture extraction unit) and original copy language judging unit (original copy language judging part) out, the character string picture that is comprised in the original image data that extraction is read by image reading unit 12 is carried out the processing of the language of judging the character string picture of being extracted out (kind).

Word analysis unit 14 is examples of word identification unit (word identification portion), carries out the processing of identified word from character string picture, and this character string picture is extracted out from the original image data by language analysis unit 13.

Handling determination section 15 is examples that the original copy character string is handled decision unit (the original copy character string is handled determination section), according to the original image data that from original copy, read by image reading unit 12, determine be included in these original image data in the relevant contents processing with character string picture.

Have again, about language analysis unit 13, word analysis unit 14, handle the performed concrete processing of determination section 15, will narrate in the back.

Retrieval server 2 is the signal conditioning packages that have been equipped with communication unit, as shown in Figure 2, possesses retrieval process portion 21, Department of Communication Force 22 and data store 23.

Retrieval process portion 21 is examples of address of service retrieval unit (address of service search part), and retrieval can be carried out the address by the processing server 5 (example of data processing service unit) of the contents processing relevant with character string picture of 15 decisions of the processing determination section in the image processing apparatus 1.Have, retrieval process portion 21 comprises the arithmetic element that is made of CPU, ROM, RAM etc. again, is stored in program among the above-mentioned ROM by execution, carries out above-mentioned retrieval process.

Department of Communication Force 22 is based on according to the communicator of IEEE802.03 standard and ICP/IP protocol etc., through the Internet 4, carries out the Control on Communication between image processing apparatus 1 or processing server 5 and the retrieval server 2.

Data store 23 is storage unit such as hard disk unit, the data that the processing of memory scan handling part 21 is required etc.

Processing server 5 is the signal conditioning packages that similarly have been equipped with communication unit with retrieval server 2, possesses: carry out the Department of Communication Force 53 of the Control on Communication between image processing apparatus 1 or retrieval server 2 and the processing server 5 through the Internet 4 and as the data store 55 of storage unit such as hard disk.

In addition, processing server 5 (processing server A, B ...) possess in order to carry out the required textural elements of various specific data processing services.

Figure 2 illustrates a structure example of processing server 5.Processing server 5 shown in this Fig (processing server A) comprises Translation Processing portion 51, annotation process portion 52, Department of Communication Force 53, function login portion 54, data store 55.In addition, translation dictionary information d6 and note dictionary information d7 are stored in the data store 55.

Translation Processing portion 51 is with reference to storing (maintenance) translation dictionary information d6 in data store 55, the Translation Processing service that character string picture that execution will be given and character string information are transformed to the character string information of translating into appointed language (example of data processing service).

Annotation process portion 52 carries out the annotation process service (example of data processing service) of the annotation information that the word that provides is provided with reference to storage (maintenance) note dictionary information d7 in data store 55.

Function login portion 54 is affixed under the situation of processing server 5 (new data processing service routine is installed) in new data processing service function, carries out following processing: will pass through the address information that the Internet 4 of this processing server 5 communicates and be used to ask the information such as form of the solicited message of its service that is additional to this processing server 5 to be notified to retrieval server 2.

Have again, Translation Processing portion 51, annotation process portion 52, function login portion 54 by be equipped with CPU and stored the ROM of established procedure, the arithmetic element that constitutes the RAM etc. in main storage area constitutes, by carrying out the program that is stored in advance in above-mentioned ROM or the above-mentioned data store 55, carry out each and handle by above-mentioned CPU.

Then, adopt process flow diagram shown in Figure 7, the program of the processing among the image processing system X is described.Have again, in the following description, S1, S2 ... the identification marking of expression handling procedure (step).

At first, in image processing apparatus 1, if the operating portion that is provided in image reading unit 12 is begun to read original copy operation, then processing controls portion 17 makes image reading unit 12 reading images (original image data) is (S1) from original copy.

Then, processing controls portion 17 makes language analysis unit 13 effective language analyzing and processing, and the language (kind) of judging the character string picture that is comprised in the original image data that image reading unit 12 read (S2).

More particularly, if language analysis unit 13 is then handled the character recognition that the original image data that read by image reading unit 12 are known from the execution indication that processing controls portion 17 accepts the language dissection process.That is to say, handle by character recognition, determine to be included in the existing zone of character string picture in the original image data, the image (character string picture) in the zone is determined in extraction, and then, from the character string picture of being extracted out, extract font image (character picture) (below, be called extract the font image out with the font image of this extraction) out.And then, to each zone of determining (for example, the zone of 1 line character string), be any one possibility high keeping the score whether in the predefined language (kind) to being included in character string picture in this zone according to 3 indexs described later.Then, to every kind of language (kind) with this score addition, the language that the score total points of every kind of language is the highest be judged as determine (that is the character string information that is wherein the comprised) language in zone.

Herein, above-mentioned keeping the score is that language analysis unit 13 adopts the font data table d1 that is stored in advance in the data store 19 to carry out.

Fig. 3 is the figure of the schematic configuration example of expression font data table d1.As shown in the drawing, in font data table d1,, set contrast font image information d11, benchmark aspect ratio information d12, font pitch information d13 to every kind of predefined language.Contrast is to be used for font image information that the consistent degree with extraction font picture shape is contrasted with font image information d11, for example is made of message bit pattern.Benchmark aspect ratio information d12 is and the relevant information of aspect ratio as the feature of the contour shape of extracting the font image out.Font pitch information d13 is the relevant information of the relative position (at interval) mutual with extracting the font image out (or be " fixing " spacing, or be " variable " spacing).

Have, to every kind of contrast font image information d11, benchmark aspect ratio information d12 and font pitch information d13, score is preestablished again.Numeral shown in Fig. 3 brace is exactly its score.

For example, as shown in Figure 3, use font image d11 in contrast, the distinctive font image of " ぁ " or Japanese such as " ア " is stored in the mode that belongs to " Japanese " such language title (kind of language).

In addition, common contour shape features such as " Japanese " or " Chinese " as character, its aspect ratio is roughly 1: 1, thereby in belonging to the benchmark aspect ratio information d12 of these language, has set " 1.0 * 1.0 ".Equally,, then be set at " 0.5 * 1.0 " etc. for " French ".

In addition, in " Japanese " etc., the font spacing (character pitch) of the relative position relation that the expression character is mutual is fixed, and in America and Europe's language, the font spacing but is variable, also this font spacing (or " fixing ", or " variable ") is set thus.

Extract the font image out for every kind in determined certain zone, language analysis unit 12 is carried out and every kind of contrast uses the figure of font image information d11 to mate, and retrieval has the contrast font image information d11 of the above appropriateness (consistent degree) of predefined setting level.Then, under the situation that the contrast with this appropriateness more than setting level exists with font image information d11, will be identified as the character (character recognition) of extracting the font image out with font image information d1 corresponding characters (character code) with contrast.Then, for the language under the character that has carried out this character recognition, language analysis unit 12 will be set in the score addition among this contrast usefulness font image information d11.

Herein, for multilingual, under the situation that is suitable for according to the appropriateness more than the setting level contrasting with font image information d1,12 pairs of these various language of language analysis unit are with the score addition.On the other hand, according to the appropriateness more than the setting level and belong under the multiple contrast of the a kind of language situation consistent with the font image, only that appropriateness is the highest contrast of language analysis unit 12 is with the score addition of font image.

For example, in the example of font data table d1 shown in Figure 3, in result according to the figure coupling, according to the appropriateness more than the setting level and " ぁ " such with reference under the situation about being fit to the font image, language analysis unit 12 adds " 5 " to language " Japanese " and divides when this extraction font image is identified as " ぁ " such character.

And then, extract the font image out, the aspect ratio that language analysis unit 12 is calculated as the characteristic quantity of its contour shape for every kind in determined certain zone.Then, language analysis unit 12 is calculated the mean value of determining the aspect ratio of every kind of extraction font image in the zone for this.And then, language analysis unit 12 is judged any (difference is little) that the mean value of the aspect ratio of so calculating approaches the value of the benchmark aspect ratio information d12 among the font data table d1 most, for the language under the said reference aspect ratio information d12 that approaches most this value, with the score addition that is set among this benchmark aspect ratio information d12.

Herein, when the mean value of aspect ratio has all identical degree of approach (difference is identical) of each value with multilingual benchmark aspect ratio information d12, language analysis unit 12 for these various language with the score addition.

For example, in the example of font data table d1 shown in Figure 3, when the mean value of aspect ratio was roughly " 1.0 * 1.0 ", each of 12 pairs of language of language analysis unit " Japanese ", " Chinese " and " Russian " added " 10 " and divides.

In addition, language analysis unit 12 is extracted the font image out for every kind in determined certain zone, calculate the interval (relative position) of the extraction font image adjacent with this, promptly as the font spacing of extracting the mutual interval of font image out (for example, the interval of using the extraction font image adjacent with this is represented the ratio of the width of extracting the font image out etc.).And then language analysis unit 12 is calculated the dispersion value that this determines the font spacing in the zone.Then, if whether the dispersion value that language analysis unit 12 is judged the font spacing of so calculating more than or equal to threshold value, then is judged as " variable " spacing more than or equal to pre-set threshold, if not so, then is judged as " fixing " spacing.Then, for the language under the font pitch information d13 consistent with this judged result (or " variable ", or " fixing "), language analysis unit 12 will be set in the score addition among this font pitch information d13.The method of this score addition is identical with the above-mentioned score addition method for aspect ratio.

For example, in the example of font data table d1 shown in Figure 3, when the dispersion value of font spacing during more than or equal to threshold value, language analysis unit 12 is judged as " variable " spacing, and " French " is added " 3 " divides.

Have again, when the language that surpasses the reference point preestablished aggregate score when being multiple, perhaps when there was multilingual in the best result with aggregate score in set score difference scope, language analysis unit 12 also can constitute the appointment in tentative zone again and carry out language again and judge.Do like this by above, extract the font image information out for every kind in the determine zone, in the stage that above-mentioned processing (total of score and score) finishes, language analysis unit 12 language that aggregate score is the highest are judged as the language (kind) of the character string picture in this zone, and make this judged result determine that as language table d3 is stored in the data store 19.

Fig. 4 is the figure that expression is stored in the content of the language definite table d3 (judged result of above-mentioned language analysis unit 13) in the data store 19.As shown in the drawing, represent the coordinate information d31 of the coordinate in zone in the original image data and be stored in language explicitly to determine among the table d3 at the estimative language message in this zone (kind of language) d32.

Like this, for each character picture that constitutes the character string picture of extracting out from the original image data, language analysis unit 12 is according to character identification result, judge language (kind) as the aspect ratio of its contour shape feature and as the font spacing of the mutual relative position of the character picture that constitutes character string picture.Self-evident, can only use a certain in character identification result, aspect ratio, the font spacing, perhaps also can consider to use any 2 kinds combination in character identification result, aspect ratio, the font spacing.

If the processing of S2 finishes, then processing controls portion 17 makes and handles determination section 15 and judge as language set information d2 and be pre-set in setting language in the data store 19 (kind) and be stored in language and determine each regional language among the table d3, i.e. the language of being judged by language analysis unit 12 (kind) whether consistent (S3).

Then, when being judged as unanimity, handling determination section 15 and determine that (judgement) provides the Translation Processing service for need not Request Processing server 5.At this moment, processing controls portion 17 moves to step S11 described later with it and handles.

In contrast, under the situation that is judged as inconsistent (difference), handle determination section 15 and determine that (judgement) is for being necessary to carry out the Translation Processing service.That is to say, handle the character string information of extracting out in the character string picture that determination section 15 decisions will be comprised from the original image data by language analysis unit 13 be transformed to translate into the character string information of setting language (that is, translating into as language set information d2 by predefined setting language) from the language of judging by language analysis unit 12 the Translation Processing service as contents processing to character string picture.At this moment, the address (S4) of the processing server 5 that can carry out this Translation Processing service is inquired by processing controls portion 17 by Department of Communication Force 11 notice retrieval servers 2.

The notice that is received by Department of Communication Force 22 is abideed by by the retrieval process portion 21 that is equipped with in the retrieval server 2 from image processing apparatus 1, retrieval can be carried out the address as the processing server 5 of the Translation Processing service of inquiry object, and gives image processing apparatus 1 (S5) with result for retrieval notice (returning).

Fig. 6 is an example that is stored in the data structure of the processing key d5 in the data store 23 that is equipped with in the retrieval server 2.

A plurality of processing server 5 (processing server A, B, C, ...) the identifying information of kind of the data processing function that each possessed, promptly handle name information d51, the function declaration information d52 that represents the content of each data processing function, represent that when handling name information d51 annotation process when (being used to obtain the processing of the explainative information of word), sets the buzz word information d53 of the buzz word set that relates to the specialized field corresponding with this annotation process, with processing server 5 (the processing server A that carries out the data processing service corresponding with handling name information d51, B, C, ...) address information d54 by login (storage) explicitly in processing key d5.

And then though do not illustrate among Fig. 6, Request Processing server 5 provides the information such as form of the solicited message of data processing service usefulness also to login (storage) to handling among the key d5.

Have again, when having added new data processing service function (new data processing service routine is installed) in the processing server 5, the processing of the function login portion 54 by this processing server 5, the relevant information (handling name information d51, a function declaration information d52, buzz word information d53, address information d54 etc.) of data processing service function that added and new is through Department of Communication Force 53 and the Internet 4 notice retrieval servers 2.Then, if the retrieval process portion 21 of retrieval server 2 is received and the above-mentioned new relevant information of data processing service function by Department of Communication Force 22, then this information is logged (storage) to handling among the key d5.

In the processing of above-mentioned steps S4, when the processing controls portion 17 of image processing apparatus 1 when retrieval server 2 inquiries can be carried out the address of processing server 5 of Translation Processing service (data processing service), processing controls portion 17 is to the retrieval server 2 notices processing name information d51 corresponding with this translation service.

In addition, in the processing of above-mentioned steps S5, the retrieval process portion 21 of retrieval server 2 is retrieval and the consistent information of processing name information d51 of having been notified processing name information d51 by image processing apparatus 1 from handle key d5, and, this result for retrieval is turned back to image processing apparatus 1 by Department of Communication Force 22.

Herein, when having the information suitable with searching object, retrieval process portion 21 turns back to image processing apparatus 1 with corresponding address information d54 and function declaration information d52, when the information of correspondence does not exist, this meaning is turned back to image processing apparatus 1.

On the other hand, in image processing apparatus 1, processing controls portion 17 makes and handles the result for retrieval of determination section 15 according to the retrieval server 2 that receives by Department of Communication Force 11, and whether the address of processing server 5 that judgement can be carried out the data processing service of searching object exists (result for retrieval " has " or " nothing ") (S6).

, be judged as under the situation of result for retrieval " nothing " at processing determination section 15, processing controls portion 17 moves to step S11 described later and handles herein.And be judged as under the situation that result for retrieval " has " handling determination section 15, processing controls portion 17 makes this result for retrieval show (S7) as the services selection picture in processes and displays portion 16.

Fig. 5 is the figure of an example of the services selection picture of demonstration in the expression processes and displays portion 16.

Processes and displays portion 16 (Tip elements, example for the services selection unit) the services selection picture that go up to show is the information to the user prompt contents processing relevant with the character string picture of handling determination section 15 decisions, and makes the user serve the picture of selecting usefulness to whether carrying out this data processing.

Have, also can select a plurality of contents processings by handling determination section 15, retrieval can be carried out the address of the processing server 5 of selected each contents processing, the information of existing each contents processing in prompting address.At this moment, the user can select desirable data processing from suggested contents processing.

At this moment, as option display process name information d51 on the services selection picture, by operation (in Fig. 5, processes and displays portion 16 becomes touch-screen, carries out this operation by pressing " explanation " part) the Presentation Function descriptive information d52 of regulation.

In addition, under the situation of the operation of having carried out this regulation, processing controls portion 17 shows the button (for example " selection " button) that is used to select corresponding with it data processing service when making the 16 Presentation Function descriptive information d52 of processes and displays portion.The user provides the execution indication of this data processing service by pressing this button to processing controls portion 17.

Then, processing controls portion 17 judges whether to have selected the Translation Processing service (data processing service) that shows on the services selection picture (S8).And when non-selected this Translation Processing service, processing controls portion 17 does not carry out the request to the Translation Processing service of processing server 5, and moves to step S11 and handle.

On the other hand, having selected text translation to handle under the situation of operation (selection operation of the contents processing relevant with character string picture) of service, processing controls portion 17 (string data is handled an example of services request unit (string data is handled services request portion)) asks Translation Processing services (S9) to the processing server 5 that can carry out this Translation Processing service (contents processing) that obtains from retrieval server 2.Specifically, the character string information that will extract out from character string picture by Department of Communication Force 11 of processing controls portion 17 and service (example of the data processing service) information (signal) that processing server 5 requests are become to be set in the language the language set information d2 with this character string information translation (conversion) send to and can carry out this Translation Processing that obtains from retrieval server 2 and serve the address of the processing server 5 of (contents processing).

In contrast, in the processing server 5 that becomes this services request address, Translation Processing portion 51 carries out by Department of Communication Force 53 character string information that receives is carried out Translation Processing, and this result (service result) is turned back to image processing apparatus 1 (S10) by Department of Communication Force 53.This result is by means of the processing controls portion 17 (result obtains an example of unit (result obtaining section)) of image processing apparatus 1, the address that has been requested the data processing service by Department of Communication Force 11 receives (obtaining), and is stored in (not shown) in the data store 19.

Then, the processing controls portion 17 of image processing apparatus 1 carries out by language analysis unit 13 word analysis unit 14 to come the word dissection process (S11) of identified word from the character string picture of extracting out from the original image data in step S2.

In this word dissection process, word analysis unit 14 is from contrasting the character arrangement that identifies by the extraction font image that language analysis unit 13 is extracted out with contrast with font image d11, handle by means of the word identification of knowing, extract word out with reference to the word dictionary (not shown) that is stored in advance in the data store 19, and the word of being extracted out is stored in the data store 19.At this moment, word analysis unit 14 will be in the word dictionary non-existent word to be judged as be special buzz word, and be stored in the data store 19 as buzz word information d4.

And then, word analysis unit 14 is among the word of being extracted out, even the higher word of frequency (usage frequency) takes place (for example, the above word of both having fixed a number), also being judged as may be the affiliated word relevant with specialized field of content of this original copy, and is stored in the data store 19 as buzz word information d4.

Then, processing controls portion 17 makes processing determination section 15 judge among the buzz word information d4 whether comprise word (buzz word) (S12)., in being judged as buzz word information d4, do not comprise under the situation of word (buzz word) herein, handle determination section 15 and be judged as and not have the data processing service of further processing server 5 being asked.At this moment, processing controls portion 17 moves to step S20 described later and handles.

On the other hand, word (buzz word) is involved (promptly when being judged as, the character string that in character string picture, has buzz word) in the time of in as the buzz word information d4 of the analysis result (word identification result) of word analysis unit 14 (example of word identification unit (word identification portion)), handle determination section 15 (the original copy character string is handled an example of decision unit (the original copy character string is handled determination section)) determine to obtain this word (buzz word) annotation information (example of explainative information) the annotation process service and as the contents processing relevant with character string picture.At this moment, processing controls portion 17 notice retrieval servers 2 are inquired the address (S13) of the processing server 5 that can carry out this annotation process service by Department of Communication Force 11.At this moment, processing controls portion 17 is notified to retrieval server 2 with the processing name information d51 corresponding with the annotation process service, and the word (buzz word) that will be included in simultaneously among the buzz word information d4 sends to retrieval server 2.

On the other hand, the retrieval process portion 21 that is equipped with in the retrieval service portion 2 is according to the notice that is received from image processing apparatus 1 by Department of Communication Force 22, with reference to handling key d5, retrieval can be carried out the address as the processing server 5 of the annotation process service of inquiry object, and gives image processing apparatus 1 (S14) with result for retrieval notice (returning).

Specifically, the 21 retrieval process key d5 of retrieval process portion, retrieval has or not the buzz word information d53 that comprises the word consistent with the word that receives from image processing apparatus 1 (buzz word), and by Department of Communication Force 22, this result for retrieval is turned back to image processing apparatus 1.

The processing of the step S14 that retrieval process portion 21 (example of word field judging unit (word field judging part)) is carried out is equivalent to judge the processing of the specialized field under the word that is identified by word analysis unit 14 (word identification unit (word identification portion)).

Herein, when existence is suitable for the information of searching object, retrieval process portion 21 turns back to image processing apparatus 1 with corresponding address information d54 and function declaration information d52, when not having the information that is suitable for searching object, this meaning is turned back to image processing apparatus 1.

On the other hand, in image processing apparatus 1, processing controls portion 17 makes and handles the result for retrieval of determination section 15 according to the retrieval server 2 that receives by Department of Communication Force 11, and whether the address of processing server 5 that judgement can be carried out the data processing service of searching object exists (result for retrieval " has " or " nothing ") (S15).

That is, the processing of step S11～S14 is a kind of like this processing: decide the annotation process and the conduct contents processing relevant with character string picture of annotation information (example of explainative information) that obtains being judged by the retrieval process portion 21 (example of word field judging unit) of retrieval server 21 word of the specialized field that (retrieval) goes out by means of handling determination section 15 (the original copy character string is handled an example of decision unit (the original copy character string is handled determination section)).

The processing of step S11～S14 also can be described as following a kind of processing: processing controls portion 17 makes processing determination section 15 according to the word identification result by word analysis unit 14 (example of word identification unit), and decision obtains being included in the annotation process and the conduct contents processing relevant with character string picture of the annotation information (example of above-mentioned explainative information) of the word in the character string picture.

, be judged as under the situation of result for retrieval " nothing " at processing determination section 15, processing controls portion 17 moves to step S20 described later and handles herein.On the other hand, be judged as under the situation that result for retrieval " has " handling determination section 15, processing controls portion 17 makes this result for retrieval similarly be presented at (S15) in the processes and displays portion 16 as services selection picture (identical with Fig. 5) with step S7.

At this moment, on the services selection picture with step S7 similarly as option display process name information d51, by operation (in Fig. 5) the Presentation Function descriptive information d52 of regulation for pressing " explanation " operation partly.In addition, when having carried out the operation of this regulation, processing controls portion 17 also shows the button (for example " selection " button) that is used to select corresponding with it annotation process service (data processing service) when making the 16 Presentation Function descriptive information d52 of processes and displays portion.The user gives the execution indication of this annotation process service by pressing this button to processing controls portion 17.

Then, processing controls portion 17 judges whether to have selected the annotation process service (data processing service) that shows on the services selection picture (S15).And when not selecting the operation (selection operation of the contents processing relevant with character string picture) of this annotation process service, processing controls portion 17 moves to step S20 and handles.

On the other hand, under the situation of the selection operation that annotation process service is arranged, processing controls portion 17 (string data is handled an example of services request unit (string data is handled services request portion)) obtain to processing server 5 requests that can carry out this annotation process service (contents processing) that obtains from retrieval server 2 word annotation information service (data processing service) (S18).Specifically, the character string information that will extract out from character string picture by Department of Communication Force 11 of processing controls portion 17 or as its a part of buzz word information d4 (word) and the address that service (example of the data processing service) information that these processing server 5 requests obtain the annotation information of this character string information or word sent to the processing server 5 that to carry out this annotation process service (contents processing) that obtains from retrieval server 2.

In contrast, in the processing server 5 that becomes this services request address, 52 couples of character string information or buzz word information d4 (word) that receive by Department of Communication Force 53 of annotation process portion carry out annotation process, and this result (service result) is turned back to image processing apparatus 1 (S19) by Department of Communication Force 53.This result is by means of the processing controls portion 17 (result obtains an example of unit (result obtaining section)) of image processing apparatus 1, the address of handling service by Department of Communication Force 11 requested dates receives (obtaining), and is stored in (not shown) in the data store 19.

Then, the processing controls portion 17 of image processing apparatus 1 makes the result of obtained data processing service by efferent 18 (example of processing result image output unit (processing result image efferent)) output (S20).

Specifically, under the situation that obtains the Translation Processing service result, the part of having implemented the character string picture of Translation Processing among the original image data that processing controls portion 17 reads image reading unit 12 is replaced as the view data with the Flame Image Process of the image behind result's (character string information after the translation) image conversion of Translation Processing service, forms image by efferent 18 outputs on recording chart.

In addition, obtain annotation process service as a result the time, the image that the character string picture that has carried out annotation process among the original image data that processing controls portion 17 reads image reading unit 12 has partly added set mark (the ※ marking) is by efferent 18 outputs and form image on recording chart, simultaneously the image behind result's (annotation information) image conversion of annotation process service is outputed to the blank parts of this image or other recording chart etc. and goes up and form image.

In addition, for example, under the situation that applies the present invention to image processing apparatus such as facsimile unit or scanister, the result that also can consider annotation process is served is with the original image data that read from original copy, perhaps replace the original image data, send (output) image processing apparatus or signal conditioning package etc. to other as view data or e-mail data.

Have, in the present embodiment, though show by the signal conditioning package that can communicate with image processing apparatus 1, promptly retrieval server 2 comes the system of the address of retrieval process server 5, is not limited thereto again.For example, also retrieval process portion 21 can be arranged in the image processing apparatus 1.

In addition, also can consider to adopt the language analysis unit 13 that will be arranged in the image processing apparatus 1, word analysis unit 14, (for example handle among determination section 15 and the processing controls portion 17 a kind or multiple function setting at the signal conditioning package that can communicate with a plurality of image processing apparatus 1, retrieval server 2 etc.) in, and the system architecture of shared these processing.At this moment, the original image data are sent to this Sharing Information treating apparatus and handle from image processing apparatus.

In addition,, perhaps carried out data processing services such as annotation process service, be not limited thereto though the character string information that above-mentioned processing server 5 provides for image processing apparatus 1 (character code string) has carried out the Translation Processing service.For example, obtain (reception) all original image data or be included in the part of character string picture wherein from image processing apparatus 1, from the basis of this pictorial data extractor string information, also can carry out data processing services such as Translation Processing service or annotation process service.At this moment, image processing apparatus 1 sends to processing server 5 with all or part of of original image data, and request msg is handled service.

In addition, in the present embodiment,, be not limited to this though processes and displays portion 16 possesses as the function of the prompting part of the information of prompting relevant data contents processing and the services selection portion from user's indication that accepts the relevant data contents processing.The function of the function of prompting part and service selection portion also can adopt the structure that is realized respectively by each inscape.

In addition, also can be used as and be used for making the image processing program that is executed in image processing apparatus 1 or carries out at computing machine in the processing of image processing system X or as can providing by the recording medium that computing machine reads of this image processing program has been provided.

That is to say, in the present embodiment, carry out the control of each textural element of image processing apparatus 1 by processing controls portion 17.But, be not limited to this, also can be recorded on the recording medium, and adopt the signal conditioning package that can read this program to replace processing controls portion 17 carrying out these programs of handling usefulness.Perhaps, also can adopt the language analysis unit 13 that will be used for carries out image processing device 1, word analysis unit 14, handle retrieval process portion 21 in determination section 15, processing controls portion 17 and the retrieval server 2, the Translation Processing portion 51 in the processing server 5, annotation process portion 52, function login portion 53 each handle or the program of the part of these processing is recorded in recording medium, and adopt the signal conditioning package that can read this program to replace these textural elements.

In this structure, the program of the arithmetic unit of signal conditioning package (CPU or MPU) playback record on recording medium, and carry out and handle.Therefore, we can say that this program itself has realized processing.

As above-mentioned signal conditioning package, except general computing machine (workstation or personal computer), can also use the expansion board or the functional expansion unit that are contained in the computing machine herein.

In addition, above-mentioned so-called program is meant the program code (execute form program, intermediate code program, source program etc.) of the software of realize handling.This program both can be used as monomer and had used, again can with other program (OS etc.) use that combines.In addition, this program temporarily is stored in the storer (RAM etc.) in the device, and then is read out and carries out after being read by recording medium.

In addition, the recording medium that has write down program both can easily separate with signal conditioning package, can fix (installation) again in signal conditioning package.In addition, also can be used as external memory is connected with signal conditioning package.

As such recording medium, can adopt semiconductor memories such as storage cards such as CDs such as disk, CD-ROM, MO, MD, DVD, CD-R (photomagneto disk), IC-card, light-card, mask rom, EPROM, EEPROM, flash ROM such as tapes such as record-reproduce head or magnetic tape cassette, soft (login trade mark) dish or hard disk etc.

In addition, also can adopt the recording medium that is connected with signal conditioning package through network (in-house network, the Internet etc.).At this moment, signal conditioning package is obtained program by the download through network.That is, also can obtain said procedure through network transmission mediums (medium that fluidly keeps program) such as (networks that is connected with Wireline or radiolink).Have, the program of downloading usefulness preferably is stored in the device (or transmitter side device, receiver side device in) in advance again.

In addition, also can be with these programs as computer data signal (data-signal string).For example, can receive and be embedded in the carrier wave and the aforementioned calculation machine data signal that is sent out, and in signal conditioning package executive routine.

As mentioned above, image processing apparatus of the present invention is according to having implemented The results of data processing to character string picture or from the information that this character string picture is extracted out, the image that comprises above-mentioned character string picture is carried out the image processing apparatus of Flame Image Process, comprise: Department of Communication Force, the data that receive are carried out various data processing service, and return between the result's who has implemented the data processing service a plurality of data processing service units and communicate; Address of service search part, retrieval can be carried out the address of the data processing service unit of the data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture; String data is handled services request portion, sends above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out and request carry out the data processing service to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture information through above-mentioned Department of Communication Force to the address that above-mentioned address of service search part retrieves from character string picture; And the result obtaining section, obtain the result that above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out are carried out the data processing service from above-mentioned data processing service unit through above-mentioned Department of Communication Force from character string picture.

According to said structure, above-mentioned image processing apparatus entrusts the address of address of service search part retrieval to carry out the data processing service of character string picture (for example translation or explanation etc.), handles service thereby can accept data necessary.Therefore, need not every image processing apparatus is provided with the character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture are carried out the required processing resource of data processing (for example dictionary information or program etc.).In addition, for example, can effectively utilize can be connected with the Internet etc. and communicate, be present in all over the world the data processing service unit was equipped with, character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture carried out required dictionary information of data processing or program etc. handle resource.

In addition, except said structure, also can form and comprise the image reading unit of obtaining the original image data after the original copy reading images; And the structure of extracting the character string picture extraction unit be included in the character string picture in the above-mentioned obtained original image data out.

According to said structure, can obtain image from original copy, extract the character string picture that is included in the obtained original image data out.Then, can handle service to the information implementation data that comprises in the character string picture extracted out or this character string picture, and character string picture be implemented Flame Image Process according to this The results of data processing.

In addition, also comprise: original copy language judging part, the category of language of judgement character string picture; And the original copy character string is handled determination section, the data processing content that decision is implemented character string picture or the information of extracting out from this character string picture, in the kind of the category of language of the character string picture that is gone out by above-mentioned original copy language judgement section judges and predefined setting language not simultaneously, above-mentioned original copy character string is handled determination section can not adopt following structure yet: decision will the above-mentioned character string picture of judging or the Translation Processing service that is transformed to the character string information of translating into above-mentioned setting language of the character string information from this character string picture, extracted out as data processing content to the above-mentioned character string picture of judging or the character string information enforcement of from this character string picture, extracting out.

Thus, for example, by in above-mentioned image processing apparatus, preestablishing this user's language commonly used, to the character string picture of in addition language, can from the data processing service unit, obtain the result who has carried out the Translation Processing service, and implement Flame Image Process according to obtained result.

In addition, above-mentioned original copy language judging part also can adopt following structure: when extract out constituting the character picture of this character string picture from character string picture, according to any one or one among the mutual relative position of feature, the above-mentioned character picture of extracting out of the contour shape of the character identification result of the above-mentioned various character pictures of extracting out, the above-mentioned various character pictures of extracting out with on judge the kind of language.

In addition, above-mentioned original copy language judging part also can adopt following structure: when extract out constituting the character picture of this character string picture from character string picture, judge the kind of language according to the aspect ratio of the contour shape of the above-mentioned various character pictures of extracting out.

By having above-mentioned a certain original copy language judging part, thereby can carry out the judgement of language by means of easy the processing.

In addition, also comprise: according to character string picture or come the word identification portion of identified word by the information of extracting out in this character string picture; And the original copy character string of decision data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out from this character string picture are implemented handles determination section, and above-mentioned original copy character string is handled determination section also can adopt following structure: decision will obtain the processing of explainative information of the word that identified by above-mentioned word identification portion as the data processing content that this character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture from character string picture.

In addition, also comprise the word field judging part in the field under the word that judgement identifies by above-mentioned word identification portion, above-mentioned original copy character string is handled determination section also can adopt following structure: decision will obtain the processing of explainative information of word in the field that gone out by above-mentioned word field judgement section judges as character string picture or the data processing content to implementing from this character string picture institute extract information to comprising this word.

Thus, for example, even the word that above-mentioned image processing apparatus fails to discern (above-mentioned image processing apparatus does not have the word of corresponding specialized field etc.) when being included in the character string picture, also can obtain the explainative information of this word from the data processing service unit.

In addition, also comprise accept to relate to data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out from this character string picture are implemented, from the services selection portion of user's indication, when existing through above-mentioned services selection portion during to the selection indication of character string picture or the information implementation data contents processing extracted out from this character string picture, above-mentioned address of service search part also can adopt the structure that the address of the data processing service unit that can carry out selected data processing content is retrieved.

Thus, only under the situation of user's desired (selection), just can provide the service of desired (selection) processing.

In addition, also can adopt following structure, this structure comprises: the original copy character string is handled determination section, the data processing content that decision is implemented character string picture or the information of extracting out from this character string picture; And the prompting part, prompting is handled the information determination section decision, relate to the data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture by above-mentioned original copy character string.

Thus, the user can select the data processing service that character string picture is implemented with reference to the data processing content-related information suggested with above-mentioned prompting part.

Image processing system of the present invention is a kind of like this system, comprising: a plurality of data processing service units, the data that receive are carried out various data processing service, and return the result who has implemented the data processing service; Image processing apparatus according to by above-mentioned data processing service unit the character string picture or the information of extracting out have been implemented The results of data processing from this character string picture, carries out Flame Image Process to the image that comprises above-mentioned character string picture; And signal conditioning package, can and above-mentioned image processing apparatus between communicate, above-mentioned image processing apparatus comprise above-mentioned data processing service unit, and above-mentioned signal conditioning package between the Department of Communication Force that communicates, also comprise the address of service search part, retrieval is arranged on address in the above-mentioned signal conditioning package, can carry out the data processing service unit of the data processing content that above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from character string picture; String data is handled services request portion, be arranged at above-mentioned image processing apparatus or above-mentioned signal conditioning package, send above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out and request are carried out the data processing service to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture information from character string picture to the address that above-mentioned address of service search part retrieves; And the result obtaining section, be arranged at above-mentioned image processing apparatus, obtain the result that above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out are carried out the data processing service from above-mentioned data processing service unit from character string picture.

In addition, above-mentioned signal conditioning package comprises the information that will be referred to the data processing function that above-mentioned each data processing service unit had and carries out the processing key that the address of the data processing service unit of the data processing service corresponding with this each data processing function is logged explicitly that above-mentioned address of service search part also can adopt following structure: retrieve the address that can carry out the data processing service unit of the data processing content of the above-mentioned character string picture or the information enforcement of extracting out from character string picture according to the information of logining in the above-mentioned processing key.

According to said structure, owing to need not in image processing apparatus, to comprise the processing key, so but the structure of simplified image treating apparatus.

Image processing method of the present invention is a kind of image processing method that uses image processing system, this image processing system comprises: a plurality of data processing service units, the data that receive are carried out various data processing service, return the result who has implemented the data processing service; The image disposal plant, according to can with above-mentioned data processing service unit communicate be connected, by above-mentioned data processing service unit the character string picture or the information of extracting out have been implemented The results of data processing from this character string picture, the image that comprises above-mentioned character string picture is carried out Flame Image Process, it is characterized in that, this image processing method comprises: address of service retrieval operation, retrieval can be carried out the address of the data processing service unit of the data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture; String data is handled the services request operation, sends above-mentioned character string picture or the information of extracting out and request carry out the data processing service to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture information from above-mentioned image processing apparatus to the address that above-mentioned address of service search part retrieves from character string picture; Result obtains operation, and above-mentioned image processing apparatus is obtained the result of service that above-mentioned character string picture or the information implementation data of extracting out are handled from character string picture from above-mentioned data processing service unit.

According to above-mentioned image processing method, the data processing service (for example translation or explanation etc.) of character string picture is carried out in the address that above-mentioned image processing apparatus entrusts the address of service search part to retrieve, and handles service thereby can accept data necessary.Therefore, need not every image processing apparatus is provided with the character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture are carried out the necessary processing resource of data processing (for example, dictionary information or program etc.).

In addition, above-mentioned image processing system also comprises and can carry out the signal conditioning package that can communicate to connect with above-mentioned image processing apparatus, also can carry out above-mentioned address of service retrieval operation by above-mentioned signal conditioning package.

At this moment, owing to need not in image processing apparatus, to be provided with the address of service search part, so the further structure of simplified image treating apparatus.

In addition, data-signal string of the present invention is with the train of signal of said procedure as the data-signal string.For example, be buried in the above-mentioned data-signal string that is sent out away in the carrier wave and carry out by reception, thereby can make this computer realization image processing method of the present invention at computing machine.

In addition, image processing apparatus of the present invention comprises: from the image fetching unit of original copy reading images; And processing result image output is single, the result of Flame Image Process has been implemented in output to the image that is read by this image fetching unit, and can carry out and to communicate to connect with a plurality of data processing service units that carry out various specific data processing services, it is characterized by, possess: the original copy character string is handled the decision unit, the relevant contents processing of character string picture that is comprised in the original image data that read from original copy according to above-mentioned image fetching unit, decision and these original image data; Address of service retrieval unit, retrieval can be carried out by above-mentioned original copy character string and handle the above-mentioned character string picture of decision unit decision or state the address of data processing service unit on the contents processing of the character string information wherein extracted out; String data is handled the services request unit, and the address that above-mentioned address of service retrieval unit is retrieved sends all or part of or the character string information from wherein extracting out of above-mentioned original image data, and asks this data processing service; And result obtains the unit, from handle the services request unit requests by above-mentioned string data the address of above-mentioned data processing service obtain the result of this data processing service, above-mentioned processing result image output unit output is obtained the result of the above-mentioned data processing service that obtains the unit by above-mentioned result.

According to this configuration, need not that every image processing apparatus is provided with required dictionary information of the processing of the character string picture that comprises in the original image or program etc. and handle resource, data processing services such as the translation of character string picture and explanation are carried out in the address that this image processing apparatus entrusts above-mentioned address of service retrieval unit to retrieve, and handle service thereby can accept data necessary.Consequently, can effectively utilize and be connected required dictionary information of the Internet etc. and processing that can communicate, that be present in the character string picture that above-mentioned data processing service unit possessed all over the world or program etc. and handle resource.

More particularly, the original copy language judging unit that possesses the category of language of judging the above-mentioned character string picture that is comprised in the above-mentioned original image data, in the kind of the kind of predefined setting language and the language that goes out by above-mentioned original copy language judgment unit judges not simultaneously, can not consider that above-mentioned original copy character string handles above-mentioned character string picture that the decision of decision unit will be comprised in the above-mentioned original image data or be transformed to the Translation Processing service of the character string information of translating into above-mentioned setting language as the contents processing relevant with character string picture from the character string information of wherein extracting out.

Thus, when in this image processing apparatus, preestablishing this user's language commonly used,, can from above-mentioned data processing service unit, obtain and export the result who has carried out Translation Processing for the original copy of the character string picture that comprises language in addition.

At this moment, can consider that above-mentioned original copy language judging unit judges the kind of language according to the feature of the contour shape of the various character pictures of the above-mentioned character string picture of extracting out of formation and/or the mutual relative position of character picture that constitutes above-mentioned character string picture from above-mentioned original image data.Can consider that the aspect ratio etc. of contour shape of above-mentioned various character pictures is as the feature of the contour shape of above-mentioned various character pictures herein.Thus, can carry out the judgement of language by means of easy processing.

In addition, also possess from the word identification unit by the identified word in the above-mentioned character string picture of extracting out the above-mentioned original image data, above-mentioned original copy character string is handled the decision unit and is determined to obtain to comprise in the above-mentioned character string picture processing of explainative information of word according to the recognition result of above-mentioned word identification unit with as the contents processing relevant with above-mentioned character string picture.

At this moment, the word field judging unit that also possesses the field under the word that judgement identifies by above-mentioned word identification unit, above-mentioned original copy character string are handled the decision of decision unit will obtain the processing of explainative information of word in the field that gone out by above-mentioned word field judgment unit judges as the contents processing relevant with above-mentioned character string picture.

Thus, when even the word that this image processing apparatus fails to discern (above-mentioned image processing apparatus does not have the word of corresponding specialized field etc.) is comprised in the character string picture of original copy, also can from above-mentioned data processing service unit, obtain and export the explainative information of this word.

These are as the output form of the data processing service result that obtains from above-mentioned data processing service unit, for example, in main points according to duplicating machine, after reading original image, carry out the output on recording chart etc. and form image, perhaps according to the main points of facsimile unit or scanister, after reading original image, send (output) arrive other image processing apparatus or signal conditioning package as view data or e-mail data etc.

In addition, possess prompting and handle the information of the contents processing relevant that determines the unit decision and the services selection unit that the user is selected with one or more above-mentioned character string pictures by above-mentioned original copy character string, when the contents processing relevant with above-mentioned character string picture selected in above-mentioned services selection unit, the address that the request of above-mentioned character string picture processing request unit can be carried out the above-mentioned data processing service unit of this contents processing related to above-mentioned character string picture or from the wherein data processing service of the character string information of extraction.

Thus, only under the situation of user's desired (selection), can provide the service of desired (selection) processing.

In addition, the present invention also can understand the above-mentioned address of service indexing unit in the above-mentioned image processing apparatus for being arranged on the image processing system in the signal conditioning package that can communicate with image processing apparatus.

Promptly, image processing system of the present invention is a kind of like this system, possesses: comprise one or more image processing apparatus of processing result image output unit of the image that is read by this image fetching unit having been implemented the result of Flame Image Process from the image fetching unit of original copy reading images and output; And the signal conditioning package that can communicate with this image processing apparatus, and can communicate with a plurality of data processing service units that carry out various specific data processing services, it is characterized in that, possess: the original copy character string is handled the decision unit, be arranged at above-mentioned image processing apparatus or above-mentioned signal conditioning package, according to the original image data that read from original copy by above-mentioned image fetching unit, the relevant contents processing of character string picture that comprised in decision and these original image data; The address of service retrieval unit is arranged at above-mentioned signal conditioning package, and retrieval can be carried out by above-mentioned original copy character string and handle the address of stating the data processing service unit on the contents processing relevant with above-mentioned character string picture that determines the unit decision; String data is handled the services request unit, be arranged at above-mentioned image processing apparatus or above-mentioned signal conditioning package, send all or part of or character string information of above-mentioned original image data to the address that above-mentioned address of service retrieval unit retrieves, and ask this data processing service from wherein extracting out; Result obtains the unit, be arranged at above-mentioned image processing apparatus or above-mentioned signal conditioning package, and from handle the services request unit requests by above-mentioned string data the address of above-mentioned data processing service obtain the result of this data processing service, the above-mentioned processing result image output unit output in the above-mentioned image processing apparatus is obtained the result of the above-mentioned data processing service that obtains the unit by above-mentioned result.

Thus, need not every image processing apparatus is provided with above-mentioned address of service retrieval unit, can constitute more efficient system.

Similarly, the present invention also can understand for being a kind of image processing method that uses each unit in the above-mentioned image processing apparatus to handle.

That is, image processing method of the present invention is a kind of image processing method of image processing apparatus, and this image processing apparatus comprises: from the image fetching unit of original copy reading images; And the result's of Flame Image Process processing result image output unit has been implemented in output to the image that is read by this image fetching unit, used and to have communicated and to be connected with a plurality of data processing service units that carry out various specific data processing services, it also can be a kind of like this image processing method, have: the original copy character string is handled decision and is handled, according to the original image data that read from original copy by above-mentioned image fetching unit, the relevant contents processing of character string picture that comprised in decision and these original image data; Address of service retrieval process, retrieval can be carried out by above-mentioned original copy character string and handle the address of stating the data processing service unit on the contents processing relevant with above-mentioned character string picture that determines; String data is handled services request and is handled, and sends all or part of or the character string information from wherein extracting out of above-mentioned original image data to the address that above-mentioned address of service retrieval process retrieves, and asks this data processing service; Result obtains processing, handles the result that this data processing service is obtained in the address of having asked above-mentioned data processing service from handled services request by above-mentioned string data; Processing result image output is handled, and is obtained the result of the above-mentioned data processing service that processing obtains by above-mentioned result by above-mentioned processing result image output unit output.

Similarly, the present invention also can understand for being a kind of image processing method that uses each unit in the above-mentioned image processing system to handle.

Promptly, image processing method of the present invention is the image processing method in a kind of image processing system, and this image processing system possesses: comprise the image processing apparatus of processing result image output unit of the image that is read by this image fetching unit having been implemented the result of Flame Image Process from the image fetching unit of original copy reading images and output; And the signal conditioning package that communicates with this image processing apparatus, can communicate with a plurality of data processing service units that carry out various specific data processing services, it also can be a kind of like this image processing method, have: the original copy character string is handled decision and is handled, in above-mentioned image processing apparatus or above-mentioned signal conditioning package, according to the original image data that read from original copy by above-mentioned image fetching unit, the relevant contents processing of character string picture that comprised in decision and these original image data; The address of service retrieval process, in above-mentioned signal conditioning package, retrieval can be carried out by above-mentioned original copy character string and handle the address of stating the data processing service unit on the contents processing relevant with above-mentioned character string picture that determines the processing decision; String data is handled services request and is handled, in above-mentioned image processing apparatus or above-mentioned signal conditioning package, send all or part of or character string information of above-mentioned original image data to the address that above-mentioned address of service retrieval process retrieves, and ask this data processing service from wherein extracting out; Result obtains processing, in above-mentioned image processing apparatus or above-mentioned signal conditioning package, handles the result that this data processing service is obtained in the address of having asked above-mentioned data processing service from handled services request by above-mentioned string data; And processing result image output handles, and obtained the result of the above-mentioned data processing service that processing obtains by above-mentioned result by above-mentioned processing result image output unit output.

In addition, the present invention also can understand for being that a kind of computing machine that makes is carried out the image processing program of respectively handling usefulness in the above-mentioned various image processing method, or a kind of recording medium that can be read by computing machine that has write down this image processing program.

According to the present invention, can communicate with a plurality of data processing service units that carry out various specific data processing services and under the connected environment at image processing apparatus, according to the original image data that read from original copy by image fetching unit, the relevant contents processing of character string picture that comprised in decision and these original image data.Then, retrieval can be carried out the address of the above-mentioned data processing service unit of the contents processing relevant with above-mentioned character string picture that is determined.Then, send all or part of or character string information of above-mentioned original image data to the address that is retrieved, and ask this data processing service from wherein extracting out.And then, obtain the result that above-mentioned data processing is served from the address of being asked, export the result of obtained above-mentioned data processing service.Thus, need not required dictionary information of processing that every image processing apparatus is provided with in the original image to be comprised or program etc. and handle resource character string picture.Therefore, this image processing apparatus carries out data processing services such as the translation of character string picture and explanation by the address of entrusting above-mentioned retrieval and obtaining, thereby can accept required Flame Image Process service.Consequently, can effectively utilize required dictionary information of the processing that is present in the character string picture that above-mentioned data processing service unit possessed all over the world that is connected the Internet etc. and communicates or program etc. and handle resource.

In addition, the present invention also can show as and relate to from the original copy reading images, according to the character string picture that comprised in this original image output implemented Flame Image Process the result image processing apparatus, image processing system, image processing method, image processing program and write down the recording medium that can read by computing machine of this image processing program.

Concrete example that carries out in the detailed description of the invention item or embodiment are example or the embodiment for illustrating technology contents of the present invention all the time, should only not be defined in the explanation that above-mentioned concrete example is made narrow sense, but can in the scope of aim of the present invention and claim item described below, carry out allly putting into practice after changing.

Claims

1. an image processing apparatus (1) according to the character string picture or the information of extracting out have been implemented The results of data processing, carries out Flame Image Process to the image that comprises described character string picture from this character string picture, it is characterized in that, comprising:

Department of Communication Force (11) carries out various data processing service to the data that receive, and return between a plurality of data processing service units (5) of the result who has implemented the data processing service and communicate;

Address of service search part (21), retrieval can be carried out the address of the data processing service unit (5) of the data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture;

String data is handled services request portion (17), sends described character string picture or the information of extracting out and request carry out the data processing service to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture information through described Department of Communication Force (11) to the address that described address of service search part (21) retrieves from character string picture; And

Result obtaining section (17) obtains the result that described character string picture or the information of extracting out are carried out the data processing service from described data processing service unit (5) through described Department of Communication Force (11) from character string picture.

2. image processing apparatus as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, comprising:

From the image reading unit (12) of original copy reading images to obtain the original image data; And

Extract the character string picture extraction unit (13) of the character string picture that is comprised in the described original image data that obtain out.

3. image processing apparatus as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, comprising:

Original copy language judging part (13), the category of language of judgement character string picture; And

The original copy character string is handled the data processing content that determination section (15) decision is implemented described character string picture or the information of extracting out from this character string picture,

Under the diverse situation of the category of language of the character string picture that described original copy language judging part (13) is judged and predefined setting language, described original copy character string handle determination section (15) decision will the described character string picture of judging or the Translation Processing service that is transformed to the character string information of translating into described setting language of the character string information from this character string picture, extracted out as data processing content to the described character string picture of judging or the character string information enforcement of from this character string picture, extracting out.

4. image processing apparatus as claimed in claim 3 is characterized in that:

Described original copy language judging part (13) when extract out constituting the character picture of this character string picture from character string picture, according to any a kind or a kind in the mutual relative position of the character picture of the feature of the contour shape of the various character pictures of the character identification result of the various character pictures of described extraction, described extraction and described extraction with on judge the kind of language.

5. image processing apparatus as claimed in claim 3 is characterized in that:

Described original copy language judging part (13) is when extract out constituting the character picture of this character string picture from character string picture, according to the kind of recently judging language in length and breadth of the contour shape of the various character pictures of described extraction.

6. image processing apparatus as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, comprising:

Word identification portion (14) comes identified word from character string picture or by the information of extracting out this character string picture; And

The original copy character string is handled determination section (15), the data processing content that decision is implemented character string picture or the information of extracting out from this character string picture,

Described original copy character string is handled determination section (15) decision will obtain the processing of explainative information of the word that identified by described word identification portion (14) as the data processing content that this character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture from character string picture.

7. image processing apparatus as claimed in claim 6 is characterized in that,

The word field judging part (21) that comprises the field under the word that judgement identifies by described word identification portion (14),

Described original copy character string is handled determination section (15) decision will obtain the processing of explainative information of word in the field judged by word field judging part (21) as the data processing content that the character string picture that comprises this word or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture.

8. image processing apparatus as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that:

Comprise accept to relate to data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out from this character string picture are implemented, from the services selection portion (16) of user's indication,

When having the selection indication of the data processing content of character string picture or the information of extracting out being implemented through described services selection portion (16) from this character string picture, the address that described address of service search part (21) retrieval can be carried out the data processing service unit (5) of selected data processing content.

9. image processing apparatus as claimed in claim 8 is characterized in that, comprising:

The original copy character string is handled determination section (15), the data processing content that decision is implemented character string picture or the information of extracting out from this character string picture; And

Prompting part (16), prompting is handled information determination section (15) decision, relate to the data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture by described original copy character string.

10. an image processing system (X) comprising: a plurality of data processing service units (5), carry out various data processing service to the data that receive, and return the result who has implemented the data processing service; Image processing apparatus (1) according to by described data processing service unit (5) character string picture or the information of extracting out have been implemented The results of data processing from this character string picture, carries out Flame Image Process to the image that comprises described character string picture; And can and described image processing apparatus (1) between the signal conditioning package (2) that communicates, it is characterized in that:

Described image processing apparatus (1) comprise and described data processing service unit (5) and described signal conditioning package (2) between the Department of Communication Force (11) that communicates,

Described image processing system (X) also comprises:

Address of service search part (21) is arranged in the described signal conditioning package (2), and retrieval can be carried out the address of the data processing service unit of the data processing content that described character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from character string picture;

String data is handled services request portion (17), be arranged in described image processing apparatus (1) or the described signal conditioning package (2), send described character string picture or the information of extracting out and request are carried out the data processing service to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture information from character string picture to the address that described address of service search part (21) retrieves; And

Result obtaining section (17) is arranged in the described image processing apparatus (1), obtains the result that described character string picture or the information of extracting out are carried out the data processing service from described data processing service unit (5) from character string picture.

11. image processing system as claimed in claim 10 is characterized in that:

Described signal conditioning package (2) comprises the information that the data processing function that had with described each data processing service unit (5) is relevant and carries out and processing key (23) that the address of the data processing service unit (5) of the corresponding data processing service of this each data processing function is logined explicitly

Described address of service search part (21) is retrieved the address of the data processing service unit (5) that can carry out the data processing content that described character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from character string picture according to the information of being logined in the described processing key (23).

12. image processing method that uses image processing system (X), this image processing system (X) comprising: a plurality of data processing service units (5), the data that receive are carried out various data processing service, return the result who has implemented the data processing service; Image processing apparatus (1), according to can with described data processing service unit (5) communicate be connected, by described data processing service unit (5) character string picture or the information of extracting out have been implemented The results of data processing from this character string picture, the image that comprises described character string picture is carried out Flame Image Process, it is characterized in that, comprising:

Address of service retrieval operation (S5, S14), retrieval can be carried out the address of the data processing service unit (5) of the data processing content that character string picture or the information of extracting out are implemented from this character string picture;

String data is handled services request operation (S9, S18), sends described character string picture or the information of extracting out and request carry out the data processing service to this character string picture or the information of extracting out from character string picture information from described image processing apparatus (1) to the address that described address of service search part (21) retrieves from character string picture; And

Result obtains operation, and described image processing apparatus (1) is obtained the result that described character string picture or the information of extracting out are carried out the data processing service from character string picture from described data processing service unit (5).

13. image processing method as claimed in claim 12 is characterized in that:

Described image processing system (X) also comprises the signal conditioning package (2) that can communicate with described image processing apparatus (1) and be connected,

Carry out described address of service retrieval operation (S5, S14) by described signal conditioning package (2).